Abstract
Objective: This case series aims to evaluate a novel supplement regimen for healthy aging in older adults, assess its potential to reduce reliance on prescription drugs like metformin and statins, and inform the design of a larger clinical trial.
Background: The convergence of an aging population and increasing prevalence of age-related chronic diseases continues to strain limited healthcare resources and exert financial pressures on healthcare systems and individuals alike. For this reason, cost-effective, readily available solutions are needed more than ever to help reduce the disease burden among older adults.
Methods: Participants included 10 men and women, aged 62-91 years, who were given a supplement regimen providing niacin (extended-release tablets), dihydroberberine (sustained-release tablets), taxifolin (sustained-release tablets), and mixed tocotrienols (immediate-release softgels) along with diet instructions. Participants were required to share the study protocol with their personal doctors, and agree to periodic in-person home visits. Blood tests (blood lipid profile, comprehensive metabolic profile, uric acid, homocysteine, and HbA1c) were completed at baseline and repeated at 6 weeks, 12 weeks and quarterly thereafter to monitor benefits and possible adverse side effects, unless abnormal tests warranted closer monitoring. Participants underwent cognitive and well-being assessments at baseline and study completion.
Results: Supplement intervention lasted 16 months, on average, resulting in clinically relevant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and an increase in HDL cholesterol. All participants with elevated Lp(a) levels at baseline (n=3) experienced reductions by study completion. All seven participants on statin drugs at baseline were able to discontinue use while achieving similar or better lipid outcomes after withdrawal. Only one participant resumed statin use, despite lipid improvements, due to digestive issues. Participants completing the self-reported assessment of well-being (n=10) reported generally stable or positive physical and mental function compared to baseline. Drop-outs were prevented with the successful management of transient side effects.
Conclusions: While more research is needed, this case series validates the therapeutic potential of a novel dietary supplement regimen to promote healthy aging in older adults, including treating dyslipidemia, promoting well-being, and reducing prescription drug use, as well as inform the design of a larger clinical trial.